Canada study permit refused? common mistakes to fix before reapplying

A study permit refusal from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada can be a major setback for international students, but it does not always mark the end of the road.

In most cases, IRCC provides a refusal letter outlining the specific reasons for rejecting an application, giving students a chance to address the issues and reapply.

According to immigration data and legal standards, many refusals stem from financial inadequacy.

Applicants must demonstrate they can pay tuition fees, cover living expenses for themselves and any accompanying family members, and afford return transportation. Applications are often refused when bank statements are unclear, inconsistent, or fail to explain large deposits.

Providing transparent documentation that clearly shows the source of funds and meets IRCC’s minimum cost of living requirements is critical.

Another common issue is a lack of clarity or credibility in the application. Submitting vague explanations or incomplete supporting documents can raise doubts about an applicant’s intentions. Experts warn against resubmitting the same application without changes, as doing so significantly increases the risk of a second refusal.

Some applicants may also be unaware that a study permit is not required in certain cases. Exemptions apply to those enrolled in courses shorter than six months, family members of foreign representatives, and members of foreign armed forces covered under the Visiting Forces Act.

Given the complexity of Canadian immigration law and frequent policy changes, applicants are often advised to seek professional guidance. Consulting a regulated immigration consultant or a specialised law firm can help strengthen a reapplication or explore legal remedies, including review by the Federal Court.